Autumn in the northwest can be as close to perfect as it gets…when the weather cooperates.  For Missy and Matt’s wedding in early October, Alderbrook Resort in Union, Washington was utterly glorious.  Something the die hard Northwesterners don’t eagerly share with out of towners– needless to say, their California guests were loving every second of it–with group hikes and golfing excursions planned, along with lots of leisure time.  The pace of the day was unhurried, just how I like it. Plenty of time to capture the many details of their day.Matt’s childhood baby bonnet was tucked into Missy’s bouquet.  And the Rock of Gilbrater, a family heirloom, found it’s place around Missy’s neck after spending some time with Moet & Chandon…Missy’s Dad quickly teared up seeing her in the gown.
And family members were lovingly adorned with bursts of fall color.Everyone needed just a smidge of lips…And the nervous bride took a moment before heading out to the dock to see her groom.Just a tiny bit happy…And a tiny bit nervous…And then a LOT happier…Her God-daughter was the picture perfect flower girl.  Those curls could possibly be illegally adorable.And the groomsmen, well, they were ready with their “Fire Powah”A dash of Charlie’s Angels.
And how often do you have Secret Service men as your groom attendants?These tackle ball fans paid tribute with their cake.  USC and WSU colors fit perfectly with the fall theme.
And  an adorable harpist set the tone for cocktail hour by the water.The night wore on and true colors began to emerge…a sense of humor is an absolute necessity when entering marriage.  Can I get a HOLLA?  Congrats Missy and Matt–enjoy California but you’ll be back… : ) xox Cortney

I’ve always preferred a fairly quiet New Year’s Eve. We usually celebrate with a fondue extravaganza (meat, cheese and YES chocolate) and family game night and movies. Some years we make it to Midnight… others, well, you know… But this past year Philip and I celebrated right along with an adorable couple–David and Kiersten–though we were cele-working capturing images all day and well into the night. The night was such fun! Kiersten had a wonderful design vision using Ostrich feathers in both her bridal bouquet and her centerpieces. It looked so whimsical and elegant. They had a wonderful musician Miguel Perez playing Spanish guitar during the ceremony and throughout the cocktail hour and their DJ Sheldon kept people on the dance floor all night. The food was, as usual, incredible–a melange of seafood, wild greens, and prime rib for dinner — and it kept coming all night, ending with cheeses, fruit, desserts and stuffed dates. The resort was illuminated with over 10 miles of white lights, such a glorious view.  They even had a life size gingerbread house in the lobby. I walked around the corner and upon a young girl about 6 years old smelling the gingerbread house and giving it a quick kiss as she left. So cute! It was a long and wonderful day for everyone…all I can say is good thing Alderbrook has such comfortable beds!